Travelling with Children on Ferries: A Family Guide

A ferry crossing can be part of the holiday adventure, with sea views and time together before you reach your destination. Whether you're planning a short crossing or an overnight sailing, a little preparation can help your family make the most of the journey.

This guide is for parents and guardians travelling with children. From travel documents and boarding arrangements to packing and safety on board, here's what to check before setting sail.

What should you check before travelling with children on a ferry?

Start with your ferry operator's guidance for your chosen route. Check-in times, travel documents, ticket requirements and facilities can differ between sailings, so check the details for both your outward and return journeys.

Include every member of your family in the booking, including babies, and enter their details carefully. If you're travelling with a vehicle, confirm its dimensions and any extras, such as a roof box or trailer, when requested.

What documents do children need to travel on a ferry?

The documents your child needs depend on the route, their nationality and the ferry operator. For overseas travel, check passport validity and any visa or entry requirements for each family member. Children may need their own documents, including babies.

For domestic crossings and journeys between the UK and Ireland, check the operator's identification requirements directly. Don't assume that the same rules apply to every route or company.

If you're taking your child abroad, check whether you need permission from anyone else with parental responsibility and what evidence to bring. The GOV.UK guide to taking a child abroad explains the requirements and exceptions. Your destination may also have its own rules.

Planning a family ferry crossing

A few checks before booking can help you choose a crossing that works for your family.

What to pack for a ferry journey with children

Keep a small bag with everything your family needs during the crossing. Check whether you can access your vehicle or stored luggage while sailing, and take your essentials into the passenger areas when you board.

• Travel documents: Keep booking details, passports and any other required paperwork together.
• Everyday essentials: Pack nappies, wipes, spare clothes and anything needed for feeds.
• Medication: Keep any required medication accessible and follow its storage instructions.
• Extra layers: Bring a jumper or light jacket for changes in temperature.
• Entertainment: A familiar toy, colouring book or small game can help pass the time.
• Chargers: Keep a charged phone handy for booking information and travel updates.

Ferry safety tips for families

Once you're on board, take a moment to get familiar with the passenger areas and listen to the safety announcements. Keep children close during boarding and when moving around the ship.

• Follow crew instructions: Pay attention to signs, announcements and any areas that are closed to passengers.
• Supervise children: Stay with younger children, including in play areas and on outside decks.
• Take care on stairs: Use handrails and encourage children to walk rather than run.
• Be careful outside: Keep children away from railings and don't let them climb on deck furniture.
• Keep walkways clear: Store bags and pushchairs where instructed.
• Ask for help: Speak to a crew member if you need assistance or have a concern during the crossing.

If you are purchasing an insurance policy for an 18 year old, or under, a parent or guardian will need to make the booking, and they must be in the care of a responsible adult during the trip.

Preparing for ferry delays or changes

Check your operator's sailing updates before leaving for the port and make sure your booking has the right contact details. Follow the operator's advice if your departure time changes.

Allow some flexibility in your onward plans, especially if you have a long drive or another connection after arriving. Keep the essentials your children may need during a wait within reach.

Family ferry holidays and travel insurance

Planning a holiday with the family? If your ferry crossing is part of a wider trip, it's worth checking your travel insurance arrangements before you go. You can explore Holiday Extras family travel insurance if you're travelling together, or children's travel insurance if you're looking at cover for younger travellers, and decide which is right for your trip.

Children must be travelling with a parent or guardian, and eligibility requirements, policy terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Cover levels, age limits and any medical screening requirements vary between policies, so check the policy documents for full details of what is and isn't covered before you book.

Need to discuss something?

If you have a question about Holiday Extras travel insurance for your family, visit our help and support page to find the right team. For questions about your sailing or facilities on board, contact your ferry operator.

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